What's Happening in Iran Right Now?

by Cas Standley

October 2022

On September 13th, 22 year old Mahsa Amini was attacked and taken into custody by Iranian police. In the country of Iran, it is mandatory that all women must have their hair completely covered by their hijab; Amini did not reach this requirement. Mashsa was beaten brutally by police and later passed away at a hospital on September 16th. 

After this was noticed by the people, they turned against their government within days. Doing this not only in protest of the strict rules against women, but for the large amount of police brutality faced in Iran. For years women in Iran have been trapped into a restricted box, not allowed to voice for themselves and fear going out onto the streets due to the repercussions they may face. 

It's no surprise, a protest like this has had a long time coming. Protesters have been heard chanting, “Death to the dictator!”, “Death to the head scarf!",  "Until when must we tolerate such humiliation?” and “Women, life, freedom!” 

However, these protests have quickly evolved into violent riots. Police are attempting to retake control with guns, paintball guns, batons and tear gas. Buildings and cars have been set on fire even bonfires have been lit in the streets. 

Ebrahim Raisi, president of the country, has dismissed these protests while the death toll of his people has reached 201, including children. Thousands of others were arrested and sent away to reeducation camps. The protest against the government of Iran is not showing any signs of stopping or slowing down until the people are seen. “The cure against enemies is to stand up to them.”

More information: Reuters and The New York Times